“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, adding: “Let’s get the peace deal DONE!”
The hours-long missile-and-drone barrage was the worst attack on the Ukrainian capital since last July. Trump’s outburst comes amid faltering U.S.-brokered efforts to secure a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.
Russia launched 145 drones and 70 missiles, including 11 ballistic missiles, in the overnight attack. Air force units shot down 112 targets, Reuters reported.
On Wednesday the U.S. president accused Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy of prolonging the “killing field” by refusing to cede Russia-occupied Crimea—territory Kyiv says is non-negotiable. Zelenskyy, noting Ukraine accepted a U.S. ceasefire proposal 44 days ago, said Russian attacks had continued regardless.
Trump is due to meet later on Thursday with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre to discuss the war, U.S. tariffs and other issues. Norway, a NATO member and staunch supporter of Ukraine, shares a 198-km (123-mile) border with Russia.
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Source: Reuters, AP News